The first phase of a programme aimed at rehabilitating young offenders concluded on Saturday in Vaanee Island, Dhaalu Atoll.
The 3-phased correctional programme for juvenile offenders titled “Ummeedhu-Maadhamaa ah” is organised by the Juvenile Justice Unit, Maldives Police Service and other relevant authorities.
20 juvenile delinquents, below the age of 18, completed the first phase of the 2-month programme, conducted at the Police Training Centre in Vaanee Island, Dhaalu Atoll.
In the first segment of the programme, young offenders were provided cognitive behavioural therapy, making them believe and realise their worth in the community.
Those who completed the first phase will now undertake 2 further stages of the programme, which includes vocational training programmes aimed at helping participants find employment.
Hamid Yousuf, Director of the Juvenile Justice Unit, said they have observed major improvements in the behaviour and attitude of children participating in the programme. Parents of those attending the programme and participants themselves also spoke positively about the effects of the programme.
img:http://s1.psmnews.mv/images/660x400/14699470919548.jpg|Programme held in Vaanee Island, Dhaalu Atoll, to rehabilitate young offenders - Photo: PSM News
The nation-wide programme is aimed at steering young offenders away from lives of crime and instilling in them a sense of civic engagement and responsibility.
Statistics published by the Maldives Police Service show crimes involving juvenile offenders rose by 48.5% in 2015, with 278 cases submitted to the authorities during the year. Drug-related offenses topped the list of the most commonly reported cases; with violent crimes and theft coming 2nd and 3rd, respectively. The rise in juvenile delinquents has become a major concern for the authorities.
The Government is undertaking various efforts to address the underlying causes of the increase in serious and violent juvenile offenders.